Muscle imbalances are a common cause of neck pain and dysfunction. As such, clinicians must be able to assess and correct these imbalances. That’s the topic of the this three part article series. My objective is to discuss assessment and corrective exercise recommendations for some of the most common muscle imbalances affecting the cervical […]
Training the Hip Hinge
Excessive lumbar flexion is widely recognized as a common mechanism of lower back injury. As such, minimizing spine flexion in an attempt to reduce tissue stress is a primary objective in the treatment of many back pain patients. And this needs to be done as early as possible in the treatment process. However, most of […]
Trunk Extension Exercise Progressions
It is well established that repetitive and sustained flexed postures will damage the spine. Given the preponderance of sitting (trunk flexion) and forward bending (even more trunk flexion) it is critical that we develop the capacity to control these flexed postures. That is where trunk extension exercises come in. It is the trunk extensor muscles […]
Dead Bug Exercise Progression
The Dead Bug is one of my absolute favorite go-to exercises to improve low back stability. Not only is it effective, but it is also completely scaleable. In other words, it can be made extremely simple for those patients who are severely deconditioned. But can also be easily progressed to more challenging levels for more […]
Pec Mobility Sequence
Tight pec muscles will cause a protracted scapular position, upper thoracic dysfunction, and makes normal shoulder mechanics impossible. That’s why pec mobility is a basic requirement for safe and effective movement. And with the preponderance of sitting occupations and nearly constant computer and mobile device use (let’s face it, we live slouched with our arms […]